Watchdog recommends suspension for Lamar Co. judge

Associated Press - November 19, 2009 6:04 PM ET

JACKSON, Miss. (AP) - A judicial watchdog has recommended the state Supreme Court publicly reprimand and temporarily suspend a justice court judge in Lamar County.

The Mississippi Commission on Judicial Performance says an investigation shows Judge Bill Anderson engaged in misconduct by failing to issue rulings in cases, refusing to timely rule in certain criminal cases and improperly holding a defendant without bond, among other acts.

The Supreme Court will consider the recommendations and determine the appropriate decision.

Anderson told The Associated Press he did not commit the acts of which he's been accused. Anderson says he's "being persecuted."